New mixed-use arts district coming to Montclair

In the coming months, redevelopment in downtown Montclair will include a new mixed-use district that will include residential, retail, office, art space and a public plaza rising next to the Wellmont Theater.(Photo: Ironstate Development Company)

Shovels are in the ground for a new mixed-use development in Downtown Montclair, NJ, that is set to energize a swath of Bloomfield Avenue and bolster the Essex County township’s reputation as a cultural, dining and shopping destination steeped in the arts.

Joint venture partners Ironstate Development Company and Brookfield, along with Montclair Mayor Robert Jackson, officially broke ground on December 10 on the transformative project that will feature residential units, retail, office space, art space, public parking and a pedestrian plaza to create a vibrant arts and entertainment district anchored by the adjacent Wellmont Theater.

Occupying 2.5 acres along Bloomfield Avenue, the redevelopment includes two buildings which straddle Seymour Street and complete the block alongside the Wellmont Theater. A six-story building northwest of South Willow Street will feature 200 rental apartments, 28,000 square feet of street-level retail spaces, 224 parking spaces, and 10,000 square feet of space available for rental by arts users.

Much of the retail space will front on a former portion of Seymour Street, which will be converted into a 12,000-square-foot public plaza. Featuring extensive landscaping, outdoor seating, and multiple art installations, the plaza is expected to host open-air performances and other events. The theater’s box office will open onto the plaza and create a bustling atmosphere during all seasons of the year.

A second, seven-story building will rise just southwest of the Wellmont Theater and will include 40,000 square feet of office space and 210 parking spaces. The project also includes a five-story municipal parking garage that will house 315 parking spaces at the intersection of Glenridge Avenue and North Willow Street.

The $135 million project will be completed in 2020.

“Downtown Montclair, and this location in particular, offers a unique opportunity for us to execute our core philosophy of combining modern design with intimate collective spaces in a walkable setting that fosters social interaction and a real connection to the surroundings,” said David Barry, CEO of Hoboken-based Ironstate Development Company. “We also believe very strongly in community building through thoughtfully-programmed public spaces and curated retail that enhances area residents’ overall experience on a daily basis and creates energy and life on the street. We’re excited to be a part of creating a destination that is authentic to Montclair and complements its unique character and appeal.”

Adding a mix of new residential, retail, art and public spaces should draw new visitors to Downtown Montclair while providing a vibrant gathering space for existing residents, a goal championed by Mayor Jackson and his administration.

Participating in the groundbreaking of the new $135 million mixed-use Arts & Entertainment District in Downtown Montclair were: (l-r) Township Councilwoman Robin Schlager; Pinnacle Companies President and CEO Brian Stolar; Montclair Deputy Mayor Sean Spiller; Montclair Mayor Robert Jackson; Ironstate Development Company President and CEO David Barry; Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr.; Township Councilman Robert Russo; and Essex County Freeholder President Brendan Gill.(Photo: Ironstate Development Company)

“This development surpasses my dream of a first-class arts district for our Township.” said Mayor Jackson. “I'm thrilled that Brookfield and Ironstate are underway and moving at a great pace. Today's groundbreaking is a milestone. I can't wait to cut the ribbon.”

Designed by Marchetto Higgins Stieve and Minno Wasko, with interiors by Kara Mann Design, the new buildings will respect historic architecture and brickwork at adjacent buildings like the Wellmont Theater and Kahn Building. Both buildings will feature predominantly brick facades to blend contextual design with modern amenities and best-in-class commercial spaces. An unobstructed view of the surrounding landscape and Manhattan skyline will be enjoyed from the office floors and from a rooftop amenity in the residential building.

Carefully-curated retail will bolster Montclair’s strong commercial corridor along Bloomfield Avenue and play a significant role in attracting residents and visitors to the area. Montclair is well known for tastefully blending local merchants with high-profile brands in fashion and dining.

The heart of the redevelopment is the venerable Wellmont Theater. First opening its doors in 1922 as a venue for vaudeville and stage plays, the Theater attracted top acts of the era like Charlie Chaplin. The theater – counting Thomas Edison as an early patron – evolved with the times and began operating as a movie theater in 1929 after the decline of silent films. After a major renovation featuring new stage lighting and a cutting-edge sound system, the theater was reborn in 2008 as the area’s largest live concert venue with a capacity for 2,500. Under new ownership today, the Wellmont Theater now includes on-site food and beverage through the Pharmacie restaurant. In partnership with Live Nation, the theater hosts over 100 events each year, will a full slate of renowned performing artists and a cherished live entertainment experience for music lovers.

Nestled at the foot of the First Watchung Mountain, Montclair is widely regarded for its diverse population, lively business districts, and proximity to Manhattan, with six NJ Transit stations located within the township. The second largest university in the state resides in Montclair, as well as an art museum, live theaters, art galleries and a wide range of boutiques, restaurants and nightlife.

For information on the available retail space, contact Jonathan Greenberg at Katz & Associates at 201-731-8468, JonathanGreenberg@dkatz.com. For information on the available office space, contact David DeMatteis at Cushman & Wakefield at 201-460-3383, david.dematteis@cushwake.com.